2019: SANTOS AND NATIVITIES

I have been collecting many wonderful objects since I was 11 years old. I started with rocks and minerals then world coins, folk art pottery, glass objects, traditional textiles, nativities, Santos, and retablos. But perhaps my most endeared collection is of the 150 nativities that I have enjoyed finding in the last 35 years. I said finding; however sometimes I feel that they have found me.  I feel as if I am the protector not the keeper or owner of these treasures. 

Of course, there is a natural connection between nativities and Santos since they both represent holly images such as Baby Jesus, the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph and the Santos Reyes Magos (the three Wise Men). I am moved by the expressions in their faces showing feelings of faith, compassion, fear, peace, strength, suffering, and most importantly their love of God.

 I only adopt any of my Saints and Nativities when they speak to me as if saying “take me home”. Sometimes I feel they tell me, “it is time to go to another home” but so far most of them have decided to grow into the big family that gives me great peace and joy.  I understand that they may be seen by many others just as wood carvings or figures made out of clay; but to me they represent not only the wonderful talent of the artist that created them trying to show the connection between our human nature and the Divine. The Santos and nativities that have been loved for a long time, some from the 18th century, carry the personal energy and devotion of their previous protectors.

  This is a selected sample of members of my family. They represent mainly the traditions and styles of Hispanic America from the Spanish colonial to the indigenous aesthetics.  I am very happy to be able to share them with you in this exhibit. I hope you see in their eyes the faith, the joy and the pain that move our hearts. 

Juan Isart